BlogLines.com
Unexpectedly Amazing 80s Movies
The 80s was the era of everything big. We had big hair, big shoulder pads, big phones and iconic TV shows. Think Dallas, Dynasty and MTV, and you’ll see why the 80s is such a defining decade. Looking back at movies of the time, they have a certain cheese factor—but we love that! Here are some 80s movies that turned out to be unexpectedly amazing.
Top Gun – 1986
Top Gun is the epitome of 80s culture and one of the most loved films of all time. Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer play two aviators competing to become “Top Gun” at the prestigious academy. It’s full of drama, tears and a cheesy love story playing throughout the movie. Nobody will ever forget the infamous Volleyball scene. You’ll also get to see a young Meg Ryan with alarmingly big hair.
View this post on Instagram Top Gun (1986 ). ??#Tomcruise #Topgun #Maverick A post shared by Tom Cruise (@tomcruiseoffcial) on Sep 17, 2018 at 10:59am PDT
Back to the Future – 1985
This movie has its own legacy and is the best time travel movie ever made. There are three installments but the first has become a cult classic. In 2015 people from all over the world celebrated the date as it had been mentioned in the movie. Michael J. Fox is full of energy and Christopher Lloyd brought a whole new level of quirkiness to the screen. Its enduring popularity will continue.
View this post on Instagram Friends for all time. A post shared by Back To The Future™ Trilogy (@backtothefuturetrilogy) on Nov 10, 2017 at 10:56am PST
Die Hard – 1988
Bruce Willis hit icon status when he took on the role of John McClane. The cynical police officer sets out to save his wife from terrorists at their Christmas party. Think shootouts, a lone cop fighting a dangerous German terrorist, some great one-liners and you’ve got a brief taste of this show-stopping movie.
View this post on Instagram I don’t find quality pictures of Bruce in the first Die Hard very often, but when I do, I just need to post them! ??? A post shared by Bruce Willis (@brucewillisdiehard) on Jun 7, 2015 at 2:56pm PDT
Flashdance – 1983
Jennifer Beals plays a struggling welder with a dream to be accepted into a dance school. She works as an exotic dancer and there’s a very famous routine which takes place in a club. Her boyfriend/boss encourages her to pursue her dreams, and she fights for her place. The movie is quite slow, but it somehow works, although this is partly due to Irene Cara’s iconic song “What a Feeling”.
View this post on Instagram When I was a kid all I wanted was to be able to afford to eat in restaurants like this. #jenniferbeals #flashdance #lobster #screenmemories ⚡️ A post shared by food & sublimation (@foodandsublimation) on Sep 26, 2018 at 12:13pm PDT
Raging Bull – 1980
A look at the life of champion boxer Jake LaMotta and his infamous temper. He loves his family, but his fiery temper exists out of the ring too, and people are pushed away by his jealousy and paranoia. The champion has to navigate his way through the boxing world and the movie shows fame and success don’t necessarily mean happiness. One of Robert De Niro’s best performances, this movie is the perfect mix of action and drama.
View this post on Instagram Raging Bull (1980) Director: Martin Scorsese Cinematographer: Michael Chapman #cinema #cinematography #ragingbull #ragingbullmovie #ragingbull1980 #jakelamotta #vickielamotta #joeylamotta #martinscorsese #scorsese #michaelchapman #thelmaschoonmaker #robertdeniro #deniro #joepesci #cathymoriarty #frankvincent #nicholascolasanto #irwinwinkler #robertchartoff #donaldomitchell #billnicholson #davidjkimball #leslazarowitz #paulschrader #mardikmartin #michaelwestmore #jimmynickerson #josephcarter #petersavage A post shared by Cinematic Artistry (@cinemartistry) on Nov 28, 2017 at 11:19am PST
The Terminator – 1984
Take an Austrian bodybuilder and put him in a movie about a robot that comes from the future to kill a young woman. It could have been bad…it should have been bad, but it was so good. It shot Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton to fame and the low-budget movie is a cult classic. It also lead to the incredible sequel that cemented the series as one of the greatest sci-fi thrillers of all time.
View this post on Instagram Please follow me: [email protected]__offical A post shared by Arnold Schwarzenegger (@arnoldschwarzenegger__offical) on Sep 6, 2018 at 8:15am PDT
E.T. – 1982
Steven Spielberg defined the 1980s with his movies, but nothing warms the heart like E.T. The movie even beat Star Wars and became the highest grossing movie ever. The relationship between Elliott and E.T is the base of the movie, but it also shows the meaning of fighting for what’s right. You’ll also see a young Drew Barrymore as Elliott’s bratty little sister.
View this post on Instagram #stevenspielberg #drewbarrymore #et #cinema #camera #hollywood #amazing #smile #photo #awesome #legend #director #pic #picture #pictures #snapshot #art #beautiful #instagood #picoftheday #photooftheday #color #all_shots #exposure #focus #capture #moment A post shared by Steven Spielberg ? (@stevenspielbergfans) on Aug 13, 2018 at 3:13am PDT
Fatal Attraction – 1987
Glenn Close plays a woman who just can’t let go of Michael Douglas. She stalks him and his family, leaving them some nasty surprises along the way. The infamous bunny scene lead to the phrase “Bunny Boiler” and Close was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar.
View this post on Instagram Fatal Attraction – by Adrian Lyne – 1987 #fatalattraction #michaeldouglas #glennclose #thriller #drama #erotic #eroticthriller #psychopath #killermovie #stalker #fatalattractionmovie #alexforrest #dangallagher #moviecharacters #moviestills #moviescenes #film #cinema #cinematichistory #cinematic #moviejunkie #eroticmovie #moviequotes A post shared by Movies ? (@republicofmovies) on Sep 9, 2017 at 6:20am PDT
MORE FROM BLOGLINES
- Awards Season
- Big Stories
- Pop Culture
- Video Games
- Celebrities
19 of the Best Books of 2021
A bookworm is happiest when they’re surrounded by books — both old and new. Undoubtedly, 2021 was a great year for both fiction and nonfiction, with bestsellers like Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters and Second Place by Rachel Cusk. Whether you read memoirs or young-adult (YA) novels, 2021 was a fantastic year for book lovers. While we can’t squeeze in all of our favorites from 2021, we’ve rounded up a stellar sampling of must-reads. Here’s some of the year’s best books.
“Crying in H Mart: A Memoir” by Michelle Zauner
In her profound memoir Crying in H Mart , Michelle Zauner shares an unflinching view of growing up as a Korean American person — all while reflecting on losing her mother to terminal cancer. Author Dani Shapiro notes that the Japanese Breakfast musician “has created a gripping, sensuous portrait of an indelible mother-daughter bond that hits all the notes: love, friction, loyalty, grief.”
“The Prophets” by Robert Jones, Jr.
In Robert Jones, Jr.’s lyrical debut novel, The Prophets , Isaiah and Samuel are two enslaved young men who find refuge in each other — and their love becomes both sustaining and heroic in the face of a vicious world. Entertainment Weekly writes that “While The Prophets’ dreamy realism recalls the work of Toni Morrison… Its penetrating focus on social dynamics stands out more singularly.” Now that’s a compliment.
“The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman
At President Joe Biden’s inauguration, Amanda Gorman read her electrifying poem, “ The Hill We Climb .” Since then, it has been praised for its call for unity and healing. Vogue captures the feeling of reading the poem well, calling it “deeply rousing and uplifting.”
“Beautiful World, Where Are You” by Sally Rooney
New York Times bestselling author Sally Rooney has returned with a sharp, romantic drama, Beautiful World, Where Are You . Two separate relationships are in chaos, threatening to ruin friendships. Vogue declares that the author has “invented a sensibility entirely of her own: Sunny and sharp.”
“Somebody’s Daughter: A Memoir” by Ashley C. Ford
Ashley C. Ford’s coming-of-age memoir, Somebody’s Daughter , centers on her childhood. Ford, a Black girl who grew up poor in Indiana, recounts how her family was fragmented by her father’s incarceration. With rich, unflinching writing, Ford has penned a debut for the ages. The memoir’s publisher perhaps puts the core of the book best, noting that Ford “embarks on a powerful journey to find the threads between who she is and what she was born into, and the complicated familial love that often binds them.”
“Last Night at the Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo
Everyone remembers their first all-consuming love — and for Lily Hu, the teenage protagonist of Malinda Lo’s queer YA novel, that love is Kathleen Miller. Set in the 1950s in San Francisco, Last Night at the Telegraph Club is not just one of the year’s best, but one of Lo’s best. O: The Oprah Magazine notes that the novel is “proof of Lo’s skill at creating darkly romantic tales of love in the face of danger.”
“¡Hola Papi!” by John Paul Brammer
In his memoir, ¡H ola Papi!: How to Come Out in a Walmart Parking Lot and Other Life Lessons , advice columnist John Paul Brammer delves into his experiences growing up as a queer, biracial person. The Los Angeles Times writes that “Brammer’s writing is incredibly funny, kind, and gracious to his readers, and deeply vulnerable in a way that makes it feel as if he’s talking to only you” — and we couldn’t agree more.
“Honey Girl” by Morgan Rogers
In Morgan Rogers’ novel Honey Girl , Grace Porter is an overachiever — and certainly not the type of person to marry a stranger in Las Vegas. Or, at least, she didn’t think she was that type of person. As Grace navigates the messiness of adulthood, Rogers takes us on a journey that’s both heartfelt and unflinching, illustrating that love is all about risks — even when it comes to loving ourselves.
“Aftershocks: A Memoir” by Nadia Owusu
Nadia Owusu’s memoir, Aftershocks , reflects on her experience of being abandoned by her parents at a young age. Entertainment Weekly notes that “Owusu dispatches all of this heartache with blistering honesty but does so with prose light enough that it never feels too much to bear.”
“Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro
What if an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant had feelings? In Kazuo Ishiguro’s latest novel, Klara and the Sun , Klara is an Artificial Friend who wonders if friendship is possible. The Financial Times called the Never Let Me Go author’s latest “a deft dystopian fable about the innocence of a robot that asks big questions about existence.”
“100 Boyfriends” by Brontez Purnell
Brontez Purnell’s romantic, intoxicating book, 100 Boyfriends , is a look at the romantic lives of queer men who are striving to find out not just where they belong, but where they can shine. Author Bryan Washington praised the collection, writing that “Each story in 100 Boyfriends is a minor eclipse: stunning in scope, technically blinding, and entirely miraculous.”
“One Last Stop” by Casey McQuiston
In Casey McQuiston’s big-hearted romance novel, One Last Stop , August meets Jane on a New York City subway — but she doesn’t realize just how fateful their chance encounter is at first. New York Magazine called the novel “an earnest reminder that home — whether that means a time, a place, or a person — is worth fighting for,” and we wouldn’t expect anything less from the Red, White & Royal Blue author.
“Afterparties: Stories” by Anthony Veasna So
In Afterparties , Anthony Veasna So weaves together tenderhearted stories about the lives of several Cambodian American characters. Although the stories vary quite a bit in terms of content, author George Saunders writes that they are all “powered by So’s skill with the telling detail,” and are much like “…beams of wry, affectionate light, falling from different directions on a complicated, struggling, beloved American community.”
“Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
In Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel Malibu Rising , readers meet four famous siblings as they throw their annual end-of-summer party in Malibu. However, over the course of 24 hours, family drama ensues. The Washington Post calls this read “a fast-paced, engaging novel that smoothly transports readers.”
“Let Me Tell You What I Mean” by Joan Didion
Between 1968 and 2000, award-winning journalist and essayist Joan Didion wrote 12 pieces about a variety of well-known figures, ranging from Ernest Hemingway and Nancy Reagan to Martha Stewart. Now, these works have been gathered in the essay collection Let Me Tell You What I Mean . Bret Easton Ellis writes that Didion’s “prose remains peerless,” so, if you’re a fan of the iconic writer, this is a must-read.
“Intimacies” by Katie Kitamura
Intimacies is Katie Kitamura’s fourth novel, following 2017’s critically acclaimed A Separation . In it, an interpreter for the International Court at the Hague gets drawn into a political scandal after agreeing to translate for a former world leader and potential criminal. The novel is a fascinating investigation into the instability of language and how it influences identity. Dana Spiotta describes Intimacies as “a haunting, precise, and morally astute novel that reads like a psychological thriller.”
“Detransition, Baby” by Torrey Peters
In Detransition, Baby , Torrey Peters tells a witty and nuanced story about partnership, parenthood and identity. About the novel, Ginny Hogan from the New York Times states “[Detransition, Baby upends] our traditional, gendered notions of what parenthood can look like.”
“Second Place” by Rachel Cusk
In Rachel Cusk’s novel Second Place , a follow up to her brilliant Outline trilogy, a woman invites an artist she admires to live in her remote guesthouse for the summer. As the stay unfolds, a series of unexpected events spurs revelations about womanhood, marriage and security. About Second Place , Jenny Singer from Glamour writes “there is mayhem; surprising sweetness and brilliant observations tumble from every page.”
“Sellout: The Major-Label Feeding Frenzy That Swept Punk, Emo, and Hardcore ” by Dan Ozzi
In Sellout: The Major-Label Feeding Frenzy That Swept Punk, Emo, and Hardcore , rock critic Dan Ozzi traces the stories of eleven separate bands that transitioned from the indie scene to achieve mainstream success in the ‘90s. Including interviews and anecdotes from bands like Green Day, Jimmy Eat World and Blink-182, this is a must-read for any music lover.
MORE FROM ASK.COM
- Discussions
- Reading Challenge
- Kindle Notes & Highlights
- Favorite genres
- Friends’ recommendations
- Account settings
Picture Books of the 1980s
A book’s total score is based on multiple factors, including the number of people who have voted for it and how highly those voters ranked the book.
People Who Voted On This List (37)
Post a comment » Comments
Related news.
- Create New List
- Lists I Created
- Lists I've Voted On
- Lists I've Liked
Anyone can add books to this list.
Saving My Votes
Friends votes, how to vote.
To vote on existing books from the list, beside each book there is a link vote for this book clicking it will add that book to your votes.
To vote on books not in the list or books you couldn't find in the list, you can click on the tab add books to this list and then choose from your books, or simply search.
Welcome back. Just a moment while we sign you in to your Goodreads account.
playing. learning. growing.
55+ Best Children’s Books From the 80s and 90s
As a long time picture book fan, I must admit that many of my all-time favourites even today were published in the 1980s-1990s! Which inspired me to put together this fabulous list of over fifty of the Best Children’s Books from the 80s and 90s .
Who can even believe that some of these classic picture books are forty years old! The list includes many award winning titles, beloved and respected authors and books that have been read over and over again by subsequent generations of children from the same family – I loved sharing many of these with my own children.
Want to go further back? For books published prior to the 1980s, check out our list of 50 Classic Picture Books and 20 Classic Chapter Books to Read Aloud With 5-8 Year Olds .
As with all of the lists in our Best Books for Kids collection, each title in this list links to an Amazon and/or Book Depository page (these are affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no cost to you) where you can find more information and reviews for titles you might not be personally familiar with.
List continues below.
Keep reading with these popular booklists;
Pin for later:
Read the comments or scroll down to add your own:
March 14, 2016 at 12:50 AM
March 22, 2016 at 8:36 PM
February 19, 2018 at 12:55 PM
June 22, 2016 at 12:24 AM
July 18, 2022 at 9:37 PM
November 15, 2016 at 3:42 PM
November 24, 2016 at 8:21 PM
May 21, 2022 at 5:00 PM
December 1, 2016 at 8:52 AM
January 11, 2017 at 12:01 PM
January 20, 2017 at 1:49 PM
January 26, 2017 at 5:22 AM
February 12, 2017 at 10:52 AM
February 24, 2017 at 12:55 PM
March 26, 2018 at 4:17 AM
March 16, 2017 at 10:21 AM
September 24, 2017 at 9:36 AM
March 21, 2017 at 8:18 PM
April 15, 2017 at 4:39 AM
April 15, 2017 at 4:56 AM
March 31, 2017 at 3:58 AM
April 10, 2017 at 9:37 AM
April 20, 2017 at 6:48 AM
April 21, 2017 at 2:39 PM
August 24, 2017 at 8:44 PM
May 21, 2017 at 11:44 PM
June 26, 2017 at 11:29 AM
May 22, 2017 at 1:03 PM
June 11, 2017 at 6:11 PM
July 9, 2017 at 6:05 PM
July 27, 2017 at 12:58 PM
August 24, 2017 at 6:35 AM
August 24, 2017 at 4:59 PM
August 29, 2017 at 10:30 AM
September 12, 2017 at 2:09 AM
October 18, 2017 at 1:17 AM
October 27, 2017 at 12:52 PM
November 7, 2017 at 3:26 PM
November 20, 2017 at 2:04 AM
November 26, 2017 at 9:08 AM
December 13, 2017 at 1:07 PM
August 23, 2018 at 6:53 AM
January 9, 2018 at 9:12 AM
January 28, 2018 at 10:32 AM
February 1, 2018 at 4:00 PM
February 4, 2018 at 10:50 PM
February 9, 2018 at 9:07 PM
February 18, 2018 at 10:58 PM
March 1, 2018 at 3:14 AM
March 4, 2018 at 2:47 PM
March 25, 2018 at 1:02 PM
April 1, 2018 at 11:09 AM
July 29, 2018 at 5:39 AM
August 17, 2018 at 6:45 AM
April 25, 2022 at 11:32 AM
May 6, 2022 at 10:58 AM
May 23, 2022 at 11:26 AM
May 11, 2022 at 6:52 AM
May 23, 2022 at 11:18 AM
June 19, 2022 at 11:11 PM
June 27, 2022 at 4:42 AM
July 3, 2022 at 2:26 AM
July 4, 2022 at 6:14 AM
July 18, 2022 at 9:53 PM
July 21, 2022 at 1:05 AM
July 30, 2022 at 4:30 AM
Learning Resources
Activities by Age
Find something memorable, join a community doing good.
80s childrens books, set price range.
- Top Customer Reviews
- Highest Price
- Lowest Price
- Most Recent
Theodore Mouse Up In The Air, Vintage 1980s Little Golden Children's Book, Written by Michaela Muntean, Illustrated by Lucinda McQueen
ad vertisement by Etsy seller
Ad vertisement from Etsy seller
TheVintageRead
From shop TheVintageRead
$ 9.95 Original Price $9.95 (50% off)
1987 Alf Paperback Children’s Book
FonziesFinds
From shop FonziesFinds
FREE shipping
Vintage Little Golden Books - 1980s - Lot of 7
myomegavintage
From shop myomegavintage
Call Me Friday the Thirteenth by Betty Bates. 1983 Softcover. Rare.
NautigulAlison
From shop NautigulAlison
Spot the dog svg / 80s svg / Retro Spot Dog Layered / Children's books svg / 80s toy SVG, PNG, EPS, Cut File, Instant Download, sublimation
Ad vertisement by CalypsoBelleDesigns
CalypsoBelleDesigns
$ 3.07 Original Price $3.07 (10% off)
Vintage 70s 80s Children’s Books - 3 books
Ad vertisement by GreatWhiteVintage
GreatWhiteVintage
$ 16.50 Original Price $16.50 (35% off)
23 Beatrix Potter F Warne & Co Green Books - 1980s Beatrix Potter Bedtime Story - Peter Rabbit - Mrs Tiggy Winkle - Classic Books
Ad vertisement by WhiteSpacePress
WhiteSpacePress
Peanut Butter and Jelly Books Girls Series Paperbacks
Ad vertisement by GoodLuxeVintage
GoodLuxeVintage
Vintage Weekly Reader Children's Books An I Can Read Bundle of 6 Books
Ad vertisement by comebackco
1980s Collection (30) Boxcar Children Mystery & Specials by Gertrude Chandler Warner - Paperback Books
Ad vertisement by MisterBlackJack
MisterBlackJack
1980's Care Bears Large Hardcover Books Series - American Greetings
Ad vertisement by SweetEmotionVintages
SweetEmotionVintages
VTG 80’s Keaka And The Lilikoi Vine, Hawaiian Version Of Jack And The Beanstalk, HC
Ad vertisement by haoli
1986 Rupert Bear Daily Express Annual - First Edition Children's Books - Vintage Child Book, Text Comics, John Harrold, 1980s
TheCharmedBookshop
From shop TheCharmedBookshop
BERT and ERNIE Miniature Notebook, Sesame Street Vintage Upcycled Book, Coptic Bound, Retro Gift for Children, 70s 80s Funny Retro Gift
From shop bindery36
Cute Vintage Children’s Board Books
ReverendBlueJeans
From shop ReverendBlueJeans
Vintage Disney "Fun to Read" Library Books | Vintage Disney | 1980's Disney | Vintage Kid's Books | 1980's Kids Toys | Old Disney Books
handmadenhandeddown
From shop handmadenhandeddown
Oscar's Book / Sesame Street / A Little Golden Book / 1981 1980s 80s / Vintage Book Retro Kids Story Picture Book
Ad vertisement by HoityToityKnickKnack
HoityToityKnickKnack
Set of vintage children's books, 4 baby books featuring Disney characters in very good condition, all from the 1980s
Ad vertisement by Hertfordweaver
Hertfordweaver
$ 12.00 Original Price $12.00 (10% off)
Vintage 1980’s Books //Kawaii Cute Unisex Hardback Book // Children Orange Set Of 2 Sesame Street
Ad vertisement by plumberryvintage
plumberryvintage
Large lot '80s and '90s teen girl books - 1980s, 1990s, young adult, Anastasia Krupnik, Judy Blume, Ann M. Martin, Sleepover Friends, more!
Ad vertisement by BuccaBeckyVintage
BuccaBeckyVintage
Soviet child book, 80s kid books, soviet kid books, books in russian, russia book vintage, Shalimov Window into infinity
Ad vertisement by OldSovietVintage
OldSovietVintage
Vintage Young Adult Paperback Lot of 7 Books, 1970s & 1980s Tween Fiction Books, Pinballs, Then Again Maybe I Won't, Beauty, Oliver Dibbs
Ad vertisement by ViannaVintage
ViannaVintage
Little Critter Stories by Mercer Mayor, Golden Book, Vintage Childrens Books, 1980s childrens books, Antique Childrens Books
Ad vertisement by LCEVintageFinds
LCEVintageFinds
Vintage 60s, 70s, & 80s Children's Books Lot
Ad vertisement by Vintagevarietypack
Vintagevarietypack
Manny the Shelter Kitty, children's books, cats, kitties, animals,shelter
AwkwardandQuirky
From shop AwkwardandQuirky
Children's Day - Hooky - Cassette tape - 1989 Posh Boy Records
From shop TapeStore
POSTER Van Halen, "Women And Children First", Vintage 12" Vinyl LP Original 1980 1st US Press HS3415
TheVinylGarageUS
From shop TheVinylGarageUS
Married... with Children: Complete Television Series Collection Came in a Direct link, Instant Download from Google Drive.
TVTreasureBox
From shop TVTreasureBox
Lot Of 10 Science Nature Experimental Animal Educational Learn Kid Children Books Mix
Ad vertisement by BooksLiquidation
BooksLiquidation
$ 14.43 Original Price $14.43 (10% off)
Vintage 80s Get Along Gang Books Paperback - CHOOSE TITLE - Get Along Gang Big Bully - Get Along Gang New Neighbor - Get Along Gang Cry Baby
Ad vertisement by OmgIHadThat
OmgIHadThat
Apple Chillers Book Lot Scholastic Kids The Ghost in The Noonday Sun Scary Books Vintage 80s
Ad vertisement by UpperPNWTreasures
UpperPNWTreasures
Peter and the North Wind by Freya Littledale, Children's Books, Vintage Books for Kids, Old Vintage Books, 1980's Books
Ad vertisement by 1395Books
Paperback 70s and 80s Elementary School Preteen Books Apple scholastic
Ad vertisement by Byebyedesign
Byebyedesign
Disney Wonderful World of Reading - Choose From List - Children Hardcover Books - Vintage 1970's - 1980's
Ad vertisement by NostalgicPander
NostalgicPander
$ 5.28 Original Price $5.28 (40% off)
Vintage 1980s 90s Childrens Book, Christmas Winter Theme Paperback Set of 6
Ad vertisement by AttysSproutVintage
AttysSproutVintage
Vintage 1980's BEATRIX POTTER BOOKS / Choose Your Favorite / Peter Rabbit / Benjamin Bunny / Hardcover 5 1/2" / Children's Literature
Ad vertisement by AmysVintageVilla
AmysVintageVilla
Songs For Sleepyheads - Pat Carfra - 1984
VintageVinylGold
From shop VintageVinylGold
All in stock! 1-50 1980s Baby-Sitters Club Books
BorrowedmemoriesCo
From shop BorrowedmemoriesCo
Van Halen • Women and Children First • HS 3415 • 1980s Rock • Hair Band • David Lee Roth Poster • Heavy Metal Records • Vintage Vinyl Record
WanderlandRecords
From shop WanderlandRecords
KIDS vintage set of two Snake and reptiles SCHOLASTIC BOOKS Vintage 60s 70s Boys Girls lizard snake Nature vintage childrens books
Raxclothing
From shop Raxclothing
Sold separately, JUDY BLUME , Dell Yearling Books, vintage paperback, childrens books, summer reading ,
Ad vertisement by BrookesVintageShop
BrookesVintageShop
Dear Mili Vintage Childrens Book Illustrated by Maurice Sendak Grimm 1980s First Edition Fairytale
Ad vertisement by CairParavelBookery
CairParavelBookery
Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban and Garth Williams/ Children’s Choice Book Club/ Hardcover/ Vintage 1980s/ Children’s Book
Ad vertisement by TheRuralRoute
TheRuralRoute
$ 14.99 Original Price $14.99 (20% off)
Vintage Child's Christmas Book, 1980's Jingle Bells Book, Little Golden Book, Kid's Christmas Book, Holiday, Christmas Decor
Ad vertisement by ThirstyOwlVintage
ThirstyOwlVintage
4 Aged Vintage 1970’s-1980’s Vintage Childrens Chapter Books-Vintage Childrens Books-Please Read Description
Ad vertisement by BreezyRiverStudio
BreezyRiverStudio
Hansel and Gretel 1982 | Little Golden Book | Vintage | children's books
Ad vertisement by CountryLovinCharm
CountryLovinCharm
Ships in April/ 17 volume set of Joy Berry's Help Me Be Good children's books
Ad vertisement by AtticEphemera
AtticEphemera
1980's Dracula & The Mummy Ladybird Horror Classics - First Edition Ladybird Books - Halloween - Older Readers - Children's Books
Ad vertisement by WildingsVintage
WildingsVintage
$ 17.57 Original Price $17.57 (20% off)
Original 1980s Science Fiction and Horror Stories -Fantastic Stories - SciFi Stories and Vintage Art - Space and Monster Magazines
TheMidwestMarvel
From shop TheMidwestMarvel
Sponsor a Preschool - 5 ITBOM Board Book Bundle - Save 12.95
ImTheBossOfMeITBOM
From shop ImTheBossOfMeITBOM
5 Vintage (40s, 50s) Whitman TINY TALES Books
Bashandcrafts
From shop Bashandcrafts
Lot of 2 1970s Vintage Books - Little Monsters - What Do People Do All Day? Richard Scarry, Mercer Mayer, Hardcover, Collectible, 1970s
ThePickledLady
From shop ThePickledLady
$ 24.00 Original Price $24.00 (47% off)
Vintage 1970s/1980s Paperback Children's Books: The Muppets Take Manhattan/Paul Bunyan Tricks a Dragon/Space Case
Ad vertisement by RustyLantern
RustyLantern
Disney books 80’s and 90’s
Ad vertisement by MagdaleneUniques
MagdaleneUniques
Treasure Trolls Book, Treasure Trolls Tizzy Book, Trolls book, Treasure trolls storybook, vintage trolls book
Ad vertisement by LauraTrev1
Vintage Hot Wheels Coloring Book. 1980s Vintage Children's Book, Coloring Cratfs Activites, Collectible Hot Wheels Book. Kids Coloring Books
Ad vertisement by BeesPaperTreasures
BeesPaperTreasures
$ 18.00 Original Price $18.00 (10% off)
8- Especially for Girls Books plus 2 more, Hardcovers 1980's
Ad vertisement by GailsGoodsStore
GailsGoodsStore
VTG Little Golden FAMILY Books Lot of 4 / DADDY, Baby Sister Baby Stories / 1968 and 1980's
Ad vertisement by LittleCicelysCloset
LittleCicelysCloset
Vintage Children's Set of Five Junior Deluxe Books Little Men - The Peterkin Papers - All The Mowgli Stories - Pinocchio Children's Decor
Ad vertisement by SheBangArt
Children Golden Books Set Of Nine Vintage
Ad vertisement by ThePuppyDogTails
ThePuppyDogTails
Common Questions
Shipping policies vary, but many of our sellers offer free shipping when you purchase from them. Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers.
Found something you love but want to make it even more uniquely you? Good news! Many sellers on Etsy offer personalized, made-to-order items.
To personalize an item:
- Open the listing page.
- Choose the options you’d like for the order. This will differ depending on what options are available for the item.
- Under “Add your personalization,” the text box will tell you what the seller needs to know. Fill out the requested information.
- Click “Buy it now” or “Add to cart” and proceed to checkout.
Don’t see this option? The seller might still be able to personalize your item. Try contacting them via Messages to find out!
Absolutely! Our global marketplace is a vibrant community of real people connecting over special goods. With powerful tools and services, along with expert support and education, we help creative entrepreneurs start, manage, and scale their businesses. In 2020 alone, purchases on Etsy generated nearly $4 billion in income for small businesses. We also created 2.6 million jobs in the U.S.—enough to employ the entire city of Houston, TX!
From handmade pieces to vintage treasures ready to be loved again, Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. It’s also home to a whole host of one-of-a-kind items made with love and extraordinary care. While many of the items on Etsy are handmade, you’ll also find craft supplies, digital items, and more.
Privacy Settings
Etsy uses cookies and similar technologies to give you a better experience, enabling things like:
- basic site functions
- ensuring secure, safe transactions
- secure account login
- remembering account, browser, and regional preferences
- remembering privacy and security settings
- analysing site traffic and usage
- personalized search, content, and recommendations
- helping sellers understand their audience
- showing relevant, targeted ads on and off Etsy
Detailed information can be found in Etsy’s Cookies & Similar Technologies Policy and our Privacy Policy .
Required Cookies & Technologies
Some of the technologies we use are necessary for critical functions like security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and to make the site work correctly for browsing and transactions.
Personalized Advertising
To enable personalized advertising (like interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. Those partners may have their own information they’ve collected about you. Turning off the personalized advertising setting won’t stop you from seeing Etsy ads or impact Etsy's own personalization technologies, but it may make the ads you see less relevant or more repetitive.
This type of data sharing may be considered a “sale” of information under California privacy laws. Turning off personalized advertising opts you out of these “sales.” Learn more in our Privacy Policy. , Help Center , and Cookies & Similar Technologies Policy .
- Skip to primary navigation
- Skip to main content
- Skip to primary sidebar
Teaching Expertise
- Classroom Ideas
- Teacher’s Life
- Deals & Shopping
- Privacy Policy
35 Of The Best Children’s Books From The 80’s and 90’s
August 2, 2022 // by Brittney Hallmark
Take a blast to the past with these children's books from the 1980s and 1990s! This timeframe produced many beautiful, interactive, simple, and original stories. The stories that many parents and grandparents have read are now enjoyed by generations of children.
From award-winning series to one-hit wonders, there were many books that became popular picks during this span of time. Browse this list of 35 of the best children's books from the 1980s and 1990s to see if your favorites are among these chosen ones.
1. The Kissing Hand
This classic tale of love between a mother raccoon and her baby is a favorite for many. This beautiful story tells of how a mother reassures her baby that he is never alone and always has her love with him. This is a popular book to use for back-to-school or in other times of separation of parent and child.
Learn More: Amazon
2. Go Away Big Green Monster
A super fun story for back-to-school time or around Halloween, this book has bold and vibrant illustrations. It is a great book for helping children face their fears. Generations of children have used this book to gain confidence and overcome fears.
3. Guess How Much I Love You
Available in the form of a board book, this sweet story of love between a parent and a child is a story that has been enjoyed by many. Perfect for bedtime, this simple story is a great way to help express the special love and bond between parents and children.
4. Where's Waldo?
Where's Waldo is a whole series of interactive stories to keep youngsters busy for hours! With limited text and many extremely detailed illustrations, children can seek to find Waldo and his friends hiding amongst very busy backgrounds. They are well hidden so these fun stories are great for explorers who love a challenge.
5. The Polar Express
The delightful story of The Polar Express is a classic picture book popular around Christmas time. A beautifully illustrated Caldecott winner, this story takes readers on an adventure that is full of magic and wonder, as a little boy makes his Christmas wish.
6. The Berenstain Bears
Silly and fun, but always ending with a moral lesson, The Berenstain Bears series is definitely a favorite from this timeframe. These picture books feature a friendly bear family and help the reader to learn a real-life lesson that can apply easily to this age group.
7. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
A hilarious spin on The Three Little Pigs, this fracture fairy tale tells the clever adventure from the perspective of the wolf. He claims the pigs have it all wrong and he wants a chance to tell the true story. His version is quite different, of course. This is a great book to use for a fairy tale unit and to introduce fracture fairy tale writing.
8. Where's Spot?
A wonderful lift-the-flap book, this adorable board book will keep little ones engaged. This interactive book follows the story of Spot the dog and all his hiding places. This is a classic bedtime story for little ones who enjoy reading about animals.
9. Five Minutes' Peace
This delightful story is a fun and silly depiction of day-to-day life for some moms. This is a classic bedtime story, sure to get some giggles from the whole family. Children enjoy watching the elephant mom try to escape for a few minutes of peace, as her babies follow her and need her the entire time.
10. Oh, The Places You'll Go
Oh, this is another classic book from the 1990s. With all of the unique and quirky illustrations ins a Dr. Seuss book, this one shares the road of life and how it includes ups and down along the way. This book walks us through a clever adventure and is a perfect gift for graduation .
11. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Loved by preschool and kindergarten teachers everywhere, this is a classic must-have book for every home and every classroom. This adventure for toddlers and young school-aged children is a great introduction to the alphabet in the form of a picture book.
12. Where the Wild Things Are
Where The Wild Things Are is a wonderful picture book for children of all ages. Max is sent to his room and enjoys a visit to where the wild things are, as his imagination runs wild and free. Children have enjoyed this captivating book for many years. Winning a Caldecott Award, this book is a wonderful story full of adventure and detailed illustrations.
13. Amelia Bedelia
Amelia Bedelia is a housekeeper who is extremely literal. She does exactly what she is told to do. Generations of children have enjoyed this series, as more books are added over time. The hilarious antics and fun figures of speech will keep readers engaged and interested in these silly stories.
14. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
A wonderful story of a boy who is living his worst day ever! Children of all ages will relate to the terrible and horrible things that Alexander experiences on his very bad day. This is a wonderful picture book to read when life sends hiccups your way and you are having a very bad day.
15. Goodnight Moon
A classic title, Goodnight Moon, is a perfect board book for toddlers and young readers. It is an ideal bedtime story, as the book takes the time to go through all the goodnights for every item the little bunny sees.
16. Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs
A humorous story of raining food, this amusing and fast-paced adventure follows life in a unique town. It is fun and funny until the weather takes a turn for the worst. What will the town and the townspeople do when the portions get heavier and bigger and the raining food does not stop?
17. Love You Forever
Not only a best seller in English, but in other languages as well, this loving book shares the tender love and affection between mother and son. The classic title is perfect for the sweet emotion that a mother has for her own. The book follows the son as he grows and his mother's love for him never wavers.
18. We're Going on a Bear Hunt
Going on a bear hunt is always fun, and this book tells you just how to do it. It carries you on a fast-paced, fun-loving adventure through all sorts of wilderness. Read with a chant, it keeps children engaged and interested.
19. The Brave Little Toaster
Made into a movie shortly after its release, this book is an adventure like no other. When several small appliances go in search of the person they belonged to, they face challenges and difficulties all along their way. This is a great twist on your average bedtime story and should definitely be on your book list!
20. The Jolly Postman
A favorite interactive book, this picture book has little envelopes, complete with letters. They are written like classic fairy tales and Mother Goose rhymes. This clever book keeps children engaged and curious about what comes next.
21. Funnybones
Perfect for young readers, the Funnybones series will always get a giggle. These classic picture books have won many awards and come highly recommended for young readers. Full of humor and fantastic illustrations, these books are a big hit!
22. The Babysitter's Club Series
A series that every girl must dive into, The Babysitter's Club has an extensive number of titles in the collection. A popular book for tween girls, topics range from friendship to crushes to school to family life. They are wholesome and great chapter books for girls of older elementary and younger middle school .
23. Arthur's Nose
Marc Brown has brought us an entire series full of Arthur classics! This is the one when Arthur decides that he wants a new nose because he does not like the one that he has. Your children will enjoy this one and all of Arthur's other classic tales!
24. The Butter Battle Book
Told in classic rhyming text, Dr. Seuss brings a book that helps young children understand and respect differences. Through the story, students will see that it is perfectly fine to have a different opinion than others.
25. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
One of the most loved children's picture books of all time, this story is great for learning more about colors and animals. In the predictable pattern of this book, readers will love meeting the friendly bear and all his friends.
26. Stellaluna
This sweet story follows a baby bat who is dropped from her mother and finds herself among a family of baby birds. Although they will all eventually fly, she is very different from them. They accept her and she becomes part of their family in the adorable story.
27. Sideways Stories from Wayside School
Sure to tickle your funny bone, Sideways Stories from Wayside School is a funny chapter book filled with silly characters and goofy events. The school is built sideways and the characters all have their own unique quirkiness.
28. Beezus and Ramona
Beezus is just trying to be a good and responsible big sister, but Ramona is a walking tornado, full of mischief and energy. She is always up to no good and manages to bring trouble wherever she goes. Beezus tries to be patient, but Ramona is a special kind of trouble.
29. The Very Busy Spider
Another awesome picture book by Eric Carle, The Very Busy Spider has long been a favorite book for children. Uniquely illustrated, this interactive book is fun to touch, as well as read. Fun for all ages, this book for toddlers, early childhood, and even elementary-aged children is a must-have for every bookshelf.
30. Little Critter Series
Little Critter is among my favorite series of picture books. He, and later his little sister, share their experiences with their family and as they grow up. These awesome picture books are great for young readers and ideal for bedtime stories.
31. Goosebumps Chapter Book Series
A whole series of wildly spooky and scary chapter books. Boys and girls in elementary school will love reading about the different scary stories and how they may end in R.L. Stein's Goosebumps series.
32. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
Does your little learner love scary stories? This is the book for those who enjoy ghost stories and frightening bedtime tales. While they read these folktales and spooky stories, they will enjoy simple illustrations that will help keep them fearful and frightened. But not too scared!
33. The Rainbow Fish
One of the most beautiful book covers ever, The Rainbow Fish has exquisite detail in the colorful and shiny scales. The story is a sweet tale of learning to share and being a good friend. This book is a great choice for starting back to school and setting a tone of kindness in your classroom.
34. Franklin's Bad Day
A whole series of books follows Franklin, a turtle who helps young readers learn valuable life lessons. This particular Franklin book is a good choice for when a friend has to move away. It is a good book to help young readers process emotions of sadness.
35. Where the Sidewalk Ends
Shel Silverstein is a classic poet with plenty of content! He thinks up the silliest, fun adventures possible. Children will giggle and can't wait to turn the pages of his books, as they soak up the equally silly illustrations and goofy topics.
Related posts:
You'll also like:.
No related posts.
- Skip to main content
- Skip to primary sidebar
- Books for kids
- Indoor activities for kids
Classic Children's Books By The Decade: 1980s
Raise your hand if you grew up reading children's books from the 1980s!
The 1980s were like a totally awesome decade, dude.
I'm really happy with this list of 20th century classic children's books from the 1980s even though using the term "classic" is becoming more and more suspect as we close in on the 21st century. I included a mix of lesser known 1980s books plus a handful of classics you may have heard of, but may not yet have read.
I'm also pleased that I was able to curate a book list with a few classic books that are quite suitable for younger audiences, both in reading level and subject matter. I do think there is something for everyone on this list! (Note: book covers and titles are affiliate links.)
10 Classic Books from the 1980s:
What are your favorite classic 1980s books for children?
Visit my other posts in this series:
- Classic Children’s Books: 19th Century
- Classic Children's Books: 1910s
- Classic Children's Books: 1920s
- Classic Children's Books: 1930s
- Classic Children's Books: 1940s
- Classic Children's Books: 1950s
- Classic Children's Books: 1960s
- Classic Children's Books: 1970s
- Classic Children's Books: 1990s
Reader Interactions
November 05, 2012 at 6:14 am
These look great and I haven't read any of them! I think by the 1980s I felt I was too old for kids books but 30 years later I feel like I am just the right age, with the bonus that I can share them with my kids!
Mom and Kiddo says
November 05, 2012 at 6:19 am
Jen, I am so excited I actually made a list that was completely new to you! And I know what you mean when you say that now you are exactly the right age to enjoy them. I feel the same way.
Natalie says
November 05, 2012 at 9:22 am
Some if the titles are familiar to me, but I haven't read any of them with Anna yet. What about Encyclopedia Brown - not sure what decade it was written though...
maryanne @ mama smiles says
November 05, 2012 at 9:50 am
I read several of these in the eighties! And now I have several I need to read. Love this series of yours!
Jackie Higgins says
November 05, 2012 at 12:39 pm
Wow! The 80s not only had great music and great (?) hair, it produced a lot of amazing titles! Thanks for the list. Some bring back wonderful memories and some are "new".
November 05, 2012 at 12:44 pm
Well, at the time we thought it was great hair! LOL.
Danya Banya says
November 05, 2012 at 2:14 pm
Great list. Yay, more books to look out for at the library 🙂
November 05, 2012 at 2:15 pm
One can never have enough books!
Renee C. says
November 05, 2012 at 9:44 pm
Omigosh - I haven't come across any of these! I would have been a teenager during that time and reading Stephen King and Anne Rice! lol Thanks for hosting this wonderful linky! 🙂
November 06, 2012 at 4:36 am
Ah, the things we read when we were teenagers!
thepicturebookreview says
November 09, 2012 at 10:05 am
Nice list! I can remember reading several of these books as a child, but for the life of me I cannot remember what many of these books were about. I think it is so odd that I can even remember where in my house I read some of those books, some of the feelings I had about the book, but the plot eludes me. Eh, such is life. Fortunately, I can always reread a book. Thanks for putting these together.
November 09, 2012 at 1:52 pm
That same plot-fog happens to me, too! It is a testament to how much the experience of reading is just as important as what specific books we read as a kid.
Melissa @ Honey Bee Books says
November 10, 2012 at 4:36 am
What a fabulous series. I haven't read any of these 1980s books so I will have to keep an eye out for them - they look great! I am going to check out your other posts in the series now for a little bookish history lesson 🙂
November 10, 2012 at 4:42 am
Thanks! And don't forget next week: 1990s. Can we still call the 1990s history?
Emma @ P is for Preschooler says
April 29, 2014 at 4:56 pm
Oh, boy, some of my old favorites are now classics. I am getting old! lol!
Tameka Phillips says
December 03, 2014 at 10:35 am
This list is AWESOME because I read many of the books listed. I intend to revisit my old friends! 🙂
Erica MomandKiddo says
December 03, 2014 at 12:52 pm
It's such a joy to read books we remember from our childhood.
June 21, 2016 at 12:28 pm
Ha! This brings me back to the days of our elementary school book fair, from which I purchased some of these. Technically my mom bought em, but you get what I'm saying. lol
Susan Gomersall says
July 23, 2022 at 10:40 pm
I want to find the book about making babies that was in the 70 or 80
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .
This website uses cookies.
We value your privacy and use cookies to remember your shopping preferences and to analyze our website traffic. Manage your privacy settings .
Children's Books 1980-1989
The paper bag princess by robert munsch.
Published by Annick Press in 1980, this story turns the traditional ‘happily-ever-after’ fairy tale on its head. After a dragon burns up Princess Elizabeth’s castle, along with all her pretty clothes, the princess goes after the dragon, who has stolen her prince, wearing only a paper bag dress. She outsmarts the fire-breathing foe and rescues her love, only to have the ungrateful prince tell her to come back when she’s dressed better. Princess Elizabeth calls the Prince a bum, and the story ends with “and they didn’t get married after all.” The Paper Bag Princess only sold around 3,000 copies in the first year, but since then it has sold more than 3 million copies and received numerous awards and endorsements for its empowering storyline, including that of the National Organization for Women. This book can be read to all children ages 3 and up.
- First editions of The Paper Bag Princess
- Signed first editions of The Paper Bag Princess
- All editions of The Paper Bag Princess
Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary
Beverly Cleary had been writing and publishing books for three decades when Ramona Quimby, Age 8 , was published by William Morrow and Company in 1981. Cleary’s first book, Henry Huggins , was published in 1950. The character of Ramona developed as the little sister of Henry’s neighbor Beezus. Ramona was first featured as a title character in Beezus and Ramona in 1955, continued to grow in Cleary’s books through the decades. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is best for readers ages 8-10.
- First editions of Ramona Quimby, Age 8
- Signed first editions of Ramona Quimby, Age 8
- All editions of Ramona Quimby, Age 8
A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams
Published in 1982 by Greenwillow Books, A Chair for My Mother tells the story of a little girl named Rosa, who is saving up her money for a chair she can enjoy with her mother and grandmother. After their home was destroyed by a fire, neighbors helped get the family the items they needed, but Rosa looks forward to something beautiful and comfortable they can buy with their hard-earned money. This was an ALA notable book, a Caldecott Honor Book as well as a Reading Rainbow Pick, great for children ages 4-8.
- First editions of A Chair for My Mother
- Signed first editions of A Chair for My Mother
- All editions of A Chair for My Mother
The BFG by Roald Dahl
The Big Friendly Giant , or The BFG , is yet another Roald Dahl collectible children's book on our children's literature by the year list. Illustrated by Quentin Blake, this tale is a deeper take on a short story from Danny, Champion of the World . Dahl dedicated this book to his daughter, Olivia, who died of measles encephalitis at seven years old in 1962. The first edition, published by Johnathan Cape in London, is highly sought after and it has been reprinted many times, remaining a beloved tale to people around the world.
- First editions of The BFG
- Signed first editions of The BFG
- All editions of The BFG
So You Want to Be a Wizard? by Diane Duane
Published by Harcourt in 1983, So You Want to Be A Wizard? is the first book in the Young Wizards Series. The series, which to date includes eleven books, stars two young Wizards, Nita and Kit, and takes place in Manhattan. The latest book, Games Wizards Play , was published in 2016. A New Millenium Edition of So You Want to Be A Wizard? was released in 2012 to fix timeline inconsistencies. The new editions place the first book in the year 2008, and through re-releases of the other 9 published books, other inaccuracies and confusions are fixed. This series is good for readers 10 years and up.
- First editions of So You Want to Be a Wizard?
- Signed first editions of So You Want to Be a Wizard?
- All editions of So You Want to Be a Wizard?
The Witches by Roald Dahl
The Witches tells the story of the "real" witches, their great hatred for kids, and their plot to destroy all of the children of the world! This is a great tale for older kids or one to read to younger children who are brave. It is eerie and strange in parts, poignant in others, and yet maintains an optimistic perspective from the hero; a young boy is turned into a mouse by a witch and he must plot to save the other children of the world.
- First editions of The Witches
- Signed first editions of The Witches
- All editions of The Witches
Saint George and the Dragon by Margaret Hodges
Published in 1984 by Little Brown & Company in Boston, Saint George and the Dragon was written by Margaret Hodges and illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman. Margaret Hodges was a professor of library science in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She volunteered as a storyteller at the Carnegie Library and also starred in the Tell Me A Story segment of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. Hodges published over 40 children’s books in her lifetime, starting with One Little Drum , published in 1958 by Follett Publishing Company. The text for Saint George and the Dragon was adapted from Edmund Spenser’s epic poem The Faerie Queene , which was first published in the 1590s. Saint George and the Dragon was awarded the Caldecott Medal in 1985. This illustrated book is best for older children, ages 8-10, but can be read to younger children with longer attention spans who will enjoy the gorgeous illustrations.
- First editions of Saint George and the Dragon
- Signed first editions of Saint George and the Dragon
- All editions of Saint George and the Dragon
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Now considered a Christmas classic, The Polar Express was first published by Houghton Mifflin in 1985. Chris Van Allsburg was awarded his second Caldecott Medal in 1986 for The Polar Express , after receiving the Medal in 1981 for Jumanji. By 1989 The Polar Express had sold a million copies. In 2004 a computer-animated film featuring Tom Hanks was released to great box-office success. This story about a boy catching a nighttime train to the North Pole and being given a special gift by Santa Claus is a great picture book for ages 4 and up.
- First editions of The Polar Express
- Signed first editions of The Polar Express
- All editions of The Polar Express
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
Published by Harper & Row in 1985, Sarah, Plain and Tall was a children’s novel written by Patricia MacLachlan. It was awarded the Newbery Medal in 1986 as well as the Golden Kite Award and the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction. The story, about a mail-order bride, is like a wholesome 90-day Fiance set in the late 19th century. Sarah leaves her home in Maine for the midwest in response to an ad placed by a widower with two children looking for a wife. A 1991 Hallmark Hall of Fame made-for-tv film stars Glenn Close and Christopher Walken. The heart of this story is the children’s wish for a mom to love them. The book is good for readers age 9 and up.
- First editions of Sarah, Plain and Tall
- Signed first editions of Sarah, Plain and Tall
- All editions of Sarah, Plain and Tall
The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman
Published by Greenwillow Books in 1986, The Whipping Boy was written by Sid Fleischman, and the first edition was illustrated by Peter Sis. Tensions between rich and poor are illustrated in this brief novel when a bratty Prince is given an orphaned boy to be whipped in his stead when he misbehaves. After the Prince decides to run away, and take his whipping boy with him as his slave, the two head on a dangerous adventure where they have to work together after being kidnapped by highwaymen. A good read for ages 7-11, The Whipping Boy was awarded the Newbery Medal in 1987.
- First editions of The Whipping Boy
- Signed first editions of The Whipping Boy
- All editions of The Whipping Boy
The Jolly Postman by Janet & Allen Ahlberg
This interactive book took the authors Janet and Allan Ahlberg five years to complete before publication by Heineman in 1986. It includes letters, cards, games, and a tiny book. The reader follows an unnamed postman as he delivered envelopes to famous fairytale characters like The Big Bad Wolf, Cinderella, and the Three Bears. Other books have been published following the success of this, including The Jolly Christmas Postman (1991), and The Jolly Pocket Postman (1995). Children ages 2 - 6 years old best enjoy this book.
- First editions of The Jolly Postman
- Signed first editions of The Jolly Postman
- All editions of The Jolly Postman
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Published by Bradbury Press in 1987, Hatchet by Gary Paulsen was the first of five novels in the Hatchet series. After his parent’s divorce, thirteen-year-old Brian Roberson is flying to see his father when the pilot suffers a heart attack and the plane crashes. Brian then survives the summer in the wilderness with only a hatchet, a gift from his mother who Brian is holding a secret about. Gary Paulsen has written over 200 books for young people, many with outdoor and survivalist themes. Hatchet was awarded a Newbery Honor. This book deals with adultery, divorce, and death, so some experts rate it for readers ages eleven and up, as always depending on the individual.
- First editions of Hatchet
- Signed first editions of Hatchet
- All editions of Hatchet
The Way Things Work by David Macauley
Published in 1988 by Houghton Mifflin, this technical book for children on The Way Things Work has been updated in 1998 ( The New Way Things Work ) and 2016 ( The Way Things Work Now ). The updates integrate new technology like computers and take out information on things like pocket calculators and parking meters. The book is illustrated by David Macaulay, whose work Cathedral (1973) showed the construction of a great building in pictures, and was a Caldecott Honor Book. Macauley’s book Black and White (1990) was awarded the Caldecott Medal. Neil Ardley, a jazz pianist and composer, wrote the technical text for the book. Ardley, wrote over a hundred books on science, technology, and music during his career, which included working as an editor at World Book Encyclopedia. This book is great for kids ages 12 and up, offering a captivating look at the technologies and scientific advances that power our world.
- First editions of The Way Things Work
- Signed first editions of The Way Things Work
- All editions of The Way Things Work
Matilda by Roald Dahl
Published by Jonathan Cape in London in 1988, Dahl's book Matilda quickly became a popular title and one that has persisted through shifting multimedia, becoming a movie, a radio program, as well as a musical.
The story is about a neglected young girl who finds a deep love of books and reading, as well as other amazing talents! Matilda finally finds where she belongs in this beloved book.
- First editions of Matilda
- Signed first editions of Matilda
- All editions of Matilda
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault
Published by Simon & Schuster in 1989, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom was written by Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault, and illustrated by Lois Ehlert. Anthropomorphized letters climb a coconut tree - will there be enough room? This bright fun rhythmic alphabet book is good for even the youngest readers and listeners, but it is available in shorter versions and board book format as well. The audiobook version is narrated by Ray Charles.
- First editions of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
- Signed first editions of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
- All editions of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Number the Stars is a work of historical fiction about the Holocaust during World War II by Newbery Award-winning author Lois Lowry. The central character is ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen from Copenhagen, Denmark, who gets caught up in the events surrounding the rescue of the Danish Jews in 1943.
- First editions of Number the Stars
- Signed first editions of Number the Stars
- All editions of Number the Stars
Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win $50 in free books!
- Share this on Facebook
- Share this on Twitter (test)
- Share on Tumblr
Author Bio: Amy C. Manikowski is a writer, bookseller, trail-diverger, history buff, and pitbull lover. She graduated from Chatham University with an MFA a while ago, and after wandering aimlessly settled in Asheville NC.
The Best Children's Books When You Were an 80's Kid
1. matilda by roald dahl, 2. if you give a mouse a cookie by laura numeroff, 3. hatchet by gary paulsen, 4. can't you sleep little bear by martin waddell, 5. sarah, plain and tall by patricia maclachlan, 6. a light in the attic by shel silverstein, 7. the polar express by chris van allsburg, 8. the bfg by roald dahl, 9. the girl with the silver eyes by willo davis roberts, 10. the paper bag princess by robert munsch.
Bullitt County Public Library
- Catalog Search
- Website Search
Popular Resources
Something for Everyone
With thousands of items in our collection, BCPL offers something for everyone to enjoy. We can’t wait to help you discover great books, movies, and more!
Check It Out
- Borrowing FAQs
- Children’s Collections
- Junior & YA Collections
- Lucky Day Collection
- Newspapers & Magazines
- Chromebook & Hotspot Lending Program
- Library of Things
- Enjoy Reading Challenges Learn about 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and other BCPL reading challenges on Beanstack!
- Get a Recommendation Explore staff picks and lists, or request a custom Book Bundle or Personalized Reading List.
- Can’t find an item? Ask a librarian, request an Interlibrary Loan, or submit a Purchase Request.
Learn Something New
Whether you want to build computer skills, master a language, or just learn something new for the fun of it, we offer resources and services to help you become the person you want to be.
- Master Technology
- Take a Course
- Learn a Language
- Pass a Test
- Get DIY Help
- Attend a Class
Become a Master Home Chef
Lynda.com is now LinkedIn Learning!
Research Databases
- Ancestry Library Edition
- AtoZdatabases
- Auto Repair Source
- Business Source Premier
- Consumer Health Complete
- EBSCOhost Web
- Gale eBooks
- HeritageQuest Online
- Kentucky Virtual Library
- Legal Information Reference Center
- Literary Reference Center Plus
- New York Times Digital
- Newspapers.com – World Collection
- NoveList Plus
- ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Louisville Courier-Journal
- Small Engine Repair Reference Center
- All Research Databases
Popular Subjects
- Arts & Humanities
- Business & Economics
- Consumer Information
- Genealogy & Local History
- Hobbies & DIY
- Jobs & Careers
- Legal Information
- Bullitt County Information
- Medical Information
- Science & Technology
- Social Studies
Instant Gratification
Use the menu to the right to learn about all available resources for a particular format (like e-books!), or click on a specific resource icon (like Hoopla!) to begin exploring available titles. With just a few simple clicks, you can access thousands of free e-books, audiobooks, music albums, videos, and more.
Download It
- Kentucky Libraries Unbound, powered by OverDrive
- How to Download or Stream E-media
- Get Help from a Reference Librarian
Try Kanopy Kids
Switch to Libby!
FLASH(back) REVIEWS: ’80s Picture Books
As we wrap up our Awesome 80s month here at BCPL, I thought it might be fun to take a look back at some of the best picture books from the 1980s. How many of these titles do you remember fondly? Which do your children or grandchildren still love today?
The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch, illus. by Michael Martchenko Year: 1980 Rating: 4.5/5 Stars Genre: Picture Book– Fairy Tale/Humor After a dragon burns down the castle and kidnaps her fiancé, Princess Elizabeth is slightly singed and has nothing to wear but a paper bag. But Elizabeth doesn’t let the loss of her finery stall her for long as she intrepidly goes off to rescue her Prince, armed with nothing but her wits. This is a quick, lighthearted read with plenty of humor and a twist at the end. The drawings—especially the characters’ expressions—perfectly reflect the text. This is a great book for teaching resourcefulness and independence. Budding young feminists (and their like-minded parents) will love it. Ages 3 to 5.
Doctor De Soto by William Steig Year: 1982 Rating: 4/5 Stars Genre: Picture Book – Humor Doctor De Soto will make a great story to build up a child’s courage before a dreaded dentist visit. Dr. De Soto is a very dedicated mouse-dentist in a world where animals act as humans.They drive cars, push baby strollers down the road, and visit a mouse-dentist for their toothaches. Of course, Dr. De Soto wisely refuses to treat animals—such as cats!—that might be tempted to eat him. That is, until the day a fox, in tears from the pain, begs Dr. DeSoto for his help. The story is slyly humorous and engaging from beginning to end. The kiddos will be fascinated by the ludicrous size discrepancies: Dr. De Soto uses a ladder to treat large animals and a pulley, operated by his wife/assistant, is necessary to reach the extra-large ones. He even climbs inside their mouths, “wearing rubbers to keep his feet dry” and is able to do such delicate work that his patients “hardly feel any pain.” Subtle visual cues, like the separate large and small staircases outside the office, keep the size theme running throughout. And of course there is plenty of amusement to be derived from Mr. Fox’s guilty desire to snack on his dentist and the De Sotos’ clever plan to outfox the Fox. This is one of the shortest books (32 pages) ever to be named a Newbery Honor Book ; it also shared the 1983 National Book Award for Children’s Books with Barbara Cooney’s Miss Rumphius . Ages 4 to 7.
King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub by Audrey Wood, illus. by Don Wood Year: 1985 Rating: 5/5 Stars Genre: Picture Book– Humor King Bidgood apparently loves a good bath, and instead of dealing with the business of the kingdom, he decides to hold all his meetings and events in the bathtub. Meanwhile, various members of the court are attempting to persuade him to come out. I had a huge smile on my face all the way through this one, beginning with the copyright and dedication pages, which shows a young page lugging a large, leaking cask of water up the winding castle stairs. The story is delightfully silly, and the illustrations are amazing, with plenty of little details to linger over. There is the Duke baiting a hook with a wiggling worm while fish watch eagerly; the page always pictured off to the side, watching and cleaning up after the court’s antics; and, of course, the members of the court, clad in elaborate Elizabethan dress, emerging drenched and dripping from their failed attempts to lure the King from his bath. Unsurprisingly, this delightful book was a 1986 Caldecott Honor book , losing out only to the much loved book The Polar Express .
More Great Picture Books from the ’80s: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr and John Arachambault, illus. by Lois Ehlert (1989) If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff (1985) Jumanji by Chris Van Allsburg (1981) Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China by Ed Young (1989) Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney (1982) The Mitten by Jan Brett (1989) The Mysteries of Harris Burdick (1984) The Napping House by Audrey Wood (1984) Owl Moon by Jane Yolen, illus. by John Schoenherr (1987) The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (1985) The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant, illus. by Stephen Gammell (1985) The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scietzka (1989) The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle (1984) Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill (1980) Where’s Waldo? by Martin Handford (1987)
What’s your favorite ’80s picture book? Did I leave your personal favorite off the list?
12 books you'll remember if you were a child in the 1980s
Growing up in the 1980s was idyllic in many ways. Sure, we first heard the term global warming, and the news wasn't always good, but as kids, we still rode our bikes, played with our original Nintendo Entertainment Systems and listened to our Walkman tapes. We loved our sticker books (especially scratch n' sniff), Pee-Wee's Playhouse and Fruit Roll-Ups, and were dying to be on the Ghostbusters team. But still we found time to read. And in childhood, the stories we explored seemed more full of adventure and wonder than could be possible. We would fight our drooping eyelids, reading late into the night by the light of a flashlight, to see what happened next.
If you grew up in the 1980s, these books will be some you remember.
12 classic books for children of the 1980s
Watch our video on childhood books
More children's books to explore
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
The ’80s were epic — it’s as simple as that. Neon-colored leg warmers were all the rage, it was cool to be a latchkey kid and you could ride a bike without a helmet. Saturday morning meant watching new episodes of She-Ra, He-Man and Transfo...
The 80s was the era of everything big. We had big hair, big shoulder pads, big phones and iconic TV shows. Think Dallas, Dynasty and MTV, and you’ll see why the 80s is such a defining decade.
A bookworm is happiest when they’re surrounded by books — both old and new. Undoubtedly, 2021 was a great year for both fiction and nonfiction, with bestsellers like Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters and Second Place by Rachel Cusk.
399 books based on 37 votes: The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, Owl Moon by Jane Yolen, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe
55+ Best Children's Books From the 80s and 90s ; Hattie and the Fox by Mem Fox.
Book Illustrations, Best Children Books, Bear Sketch, I Can Read Books, Maurice.
Check out our 80s childrens books selection for the very best in ... 1981 1980s 80s / Vintage Book Retro Kids Story Picture Book.
35 Of The Best Children's Books From The 80's and 90's · 1. The Kissing Hand · 2. Go Away Big Green Monster · 3. Guess How Much I Love You · 4.
The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales. (1985) I like finding short story collections to include on these lists.
Children's Books 1980-1989 · The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch · Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary · A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams · The BFG
Mr. Men & Little Miss · The Berenstain Bears · Choose Your Own Adventures · Cathy Guisewite · Teddy Ruxpin · Clifford the Big Red Dog · Little Critters · Parents Mag.
The Best Children's Books When You Were an 80's Kid · 1. Matilda by Roald Dahl · 2. If You Give A Mouse A Cookie by Laura Numeroff · 3. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen · 4.
FLASH(back) REVIEWS: '80s Picture Books ; The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch, illus. by Michael Martchenko Year: 1980. Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
12 classic books for children of the 1980s ; Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson · Bridge to Terabithia · Katherine Paterson ; Superfudge by